Autism Diagnosis in the Yukon



Speakers will be from the Yukon Child Development Centre, Disability Services at the Yukon Government, a Registered Psychologist and a parent who has had their child undergo an autism assessment. Speakers will describe the autism diagnosis process at their organization. The parent speaker will provide viewers with some tips to keep in mind during the process.

 

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Want to learn more now? Check out:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder in the Yukon: All you need to know before a diagnosis
• Yukon – We have an ASD Diagnosis: Now What?
• Yukon Collection

 

 

Presenters

Enda Hovenden, Developmental Diagnostic and Support Services Coordinator

Since 2024, I have been the Developmental Diagnostic and Support Services Coordinator with Disability Services, coordinating school aged ASD assessments and adult FASD assessments. Originally from Ireland, I immigrated to Canada in 2011 and moved to the Yukon in 2012. I spent 10 years living and working in rural communities before moving to Whitehorse. I have two, Yukon born, kids and spend most of my days at the arena getting them on the ice for hockey.

 

Vanessa Norris, Diagnostic Coordinator

Vanessa Norris (she/her) has been working with the Yukon Child Development Centre since 2022. Vanessa enjoys working with children ages 0–5, as they bring a lot of energy, excitement, and joy to the job. Her current interest focuses on creating culturally responsive approaches to the diagnostic process.

 

Charlene Bradford, Registered Psychologist

Charlene Bradford is a clinical and child psychologist based in Whitehorse Yukon, with a passion for rural and northern mental health and working with children, parents, and families. Charlene has worked within the public mental health, youth justice, and education systems, taught at Yukon University, and opened a private practice clinic providing psychological services and supervision. This past year, she was honored to receive an award for Distinguished Professional Contribution to Rural and Northern Psychology.

 

Colleen Madore, Parent

As the parent to two children with exceptionalities, Colleen Madore (she/her) brings lived experience and an advocacy lens to discussions about the autism inquiry and diagnosis process. She believes autistic and neurodivergent children and families should be supported through inclusive systems that empower rather than pathologize, value lived experiences, are culturally relevant, and connect diagnosis to meaningful supports. Colleen is thankful to live on the traditional territories of the Kwanlin Dün First Nation and Ta’an Kwächän Council.

 

Moderator

• Rebecca Fenton, Executive Director, Autism Yukon

 

 

 

 

 

Accessing autism resources can be a challenge, but it’s easier when you have partners and allies by your side. Connect with other parents, caregivers, and professionals in the autism community to share information, advice, and support. Together, we can create a more inclusive and supportive world for individuals with autism and their families.